Importance of Continued Mammogram Screenings After 75: New Research Indicates Potential Life-Saving Benefits

For women between the ages of 40 and 74, annual or biennial mammograms are the standard protocol for breast cancer screening. These screenings have been shown to significantly reduce the chances of late-stage diagnosis and improve survival rates. However, guidelines have historically been less definitive for women aged 75 and older.

A recent study conducted by researchers at the Yale School of Public Health, published in JAMA Network Open, sheds light on the benefits of continued mammogram screening in this age group. The research analyzed data from over 13,000 women aged 70 and above who were diagnosed with breast cancer between 2010 and 2017. The findings suggest that women who had regular mammograms prior to diagnosis were more likely to be diagnosed at an earlier stage and had lower mortality rates associated with breast cancer.

The study indicates that ongoing screening could potentially lead to earlier detection and improved outcomes even among women aged 75 and older. The lead researcher, Sida Huang, emphasized that this evidence points to the potential benefits of personalized screening decisions based on individual health profiles. Co-researcher Dr. Michaela Dinan highlighted that routine screening in older women may still detect cancers at a treatable stage.

However, the researchers also noted the risks. Overdiagnosis is a concern, especially in older women, as it can lead to unnecessary biopsies, treatments, and emotional distress. Many tumors identified in this age group may be slow-growing or insignificant compared to other health issues like cardiovascular disease.

The study utilized Medicare claims data combined with cancer registry information to ensure comprehensive analysis. Factors such as socioeconomic status, health behaviors, and comorbidities were considered to account for potential confounders. Notably, women with a history of prior mammograms were less likely to be diagnosed at later stages and had a reduced risk of death.

While the results support the idea that continued mammography in women over 75 could be beneficial, the authors caution that the decision to undergo screening should be personalized. Given the complex trade-offs between benefits and risks, women are advised to discuss their individual health circumstances with their healthcare providers.

In summary, this study provides evidence that regular mammogram screenings after age 75 may save lives through earlier detection, but should be tailored to each woman’s health profile and preferences.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-mammograms-age-regular-screening.html